The first multicultural E3 Business Awards took place on Thursday 7th February at the Reebok Stadium in Bolton, where 700 guests from the North West regional business community came to hear the winners being announced. Click on the images to watch the 'Winners' video (more pictures and videos).

There were 48 finalists for the twelve award categories and their nominations were judged by an independent panel of entrepreneurs and business experts. The winners were:

1. New Business Start-Up of the Year

in association with Enterprise4all NW

2. High Growth Business of the Yearin association with Amari Super Cars

3. Young Entrepreneur of the Year

in association with Tile Mart

Winner: Staff Absence SolutionsMark Eastwood (right)

Winner: Renewable Solutions UKPeter Eaton (right)

Winner: Ria Meera MunshiRi Ri's Dance Academy (pictured right)

4. Outstanding Woman in Businessin association with Axiom Recruitment

5. Sustainable Business of the Year

in association with Suzanna's

6. International Business of the Yearin association with UK Trade & Investment